The embassies of Ethiopia and Turkey have said they are not aware of any unpaid ground rent in Abuja, days after the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) named them among foreign missions said to be owing rent for properties in the city.
The Ethiopian Embassy responded first, stating that it had never received any formal notice or demand for ground rent payment from Nigerian authorities.
The mission explained that it had no record of such debt and had always followed due process in handling its property matters in Nigeria.
The Turkish Embassy also made it clear that it was not officially informed about any outstanding fees.
A top official said that the embassy regularly handles its payments and would look into the situation to confirm whether there was a mistake or confusion.
If any issue is found, the embassy promised to resolve it without delay.
Both countries stressed their commitment to maintaining a good relationship with Nigeria and said they are open to working with local authorities to clear up any confusion.
They assured that they follow the rules of diplomatic conduct and respect the laws of the country where they operate.
The FCTA had recently shared a list of embassies and high commissions it said owed rent for land use in Abuja, prompting responses from several missions.
Ethiopia and Turkey have now made their positions clear and expressed readiness to clear up any misunderstanding with Nigerian officials.
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